For inquiries about this item, please scroll to the bottom the page: “enquire about this item”.
Empire Clock – French Ormolu Bronze with Diana & Swans, Circa 19th Century
Bring home a true masterpiece of neoclassical design with this 19th century French Empire ormolu mantel clock. Crafted in finely cast and fire-gilded bronze, this extraordinary timepiece celebrates Diana—the Roman goddess of the hunt, the wilderness, and the moon—in a dramatic composition with three swans.
A Rare Icon of Mythology and Art
Empire clocks featuring Diana were prized in aristocratic homes, castles, and châteaux throughout France. This example is exceptionally rare, as Diana is depicted in a commanding pose with three swans, a motif seldom seen in period designs.
Diana is shown seated above the clock, robed in flowing classical drapery. One hand lifts a swan near her face, while the other pours water from a jug onto a pillar. A second swan, perched upon the pillar, channels the flowing water downward. Her extended legs rest partly on a pillar and partly on the head of a third swan, symbolizing her authority and grace. Each swan’s open beak evokes the fountains of ancient gardens, adding movement and vitality to the design.
Architectural Elegance
Two richly decorated pillars frame the enamel dial, which is fitted with Roman numerals and ormolu bronze hands. Beneath the dial, a delicate fringe of fire-gilt bronze enhances the overall sense of luxury.
The base is equally remarkable, adorned with mythological scenes in relief:
Left: Zeus with a goose.
Center: Two playful putti approached by another goose.
Right: Diana depicted once again, reinforcing the theme of divine strength and beauty.
The clock rests firmly on four bronze feet, combining stability with refined presence.
Movement & Function
8-day mechanical movement.
Professionally serviced and oiled.
Strikes the half-hour and hour on a bell.
Complete with original bell, pendulum, and winding key.
Fully functional and ready to use.
Original Ormolu Fire Gilding
This clock retains its original fire-gilt ormolu surface from the 1800s. The gilding has been carefully cleaned but never restored or regilded, preserving the authentic brilliance and patina of the period.
Dimensions (approx.)
Height: 48 cm / 19 in
Width: 42 cm / 16.5 in
Depth: 14 cm / 5.5 in
Condition
Excellent antique condition.
Original ormolu surface intact and well preserved.
Professional servicing ensures the clock is in full working order.
Shipping & Care
Your clock will be expertly packed with protective materials and shipped via a reliable courier service. Tracking and insurance are included to guarantee safe delivery worldwide.
✨ This French Empire ormolu mantel clock is more than a timepiece—it is a work of art that unites mythology, craftsmanship, and history. A centerpiece for collectors, connoisseurs, and those who seek the timeless grandeur of Empire design.
For inquiries about this item, please scroll to the bottom the page: “enquire about this item”.
Empire Clock – French Ormolu Bronze with Diana & Swans, Circa 19th Century
Bring home a true masterpiece of neoclassical design with this 19th century French Empire ormolu mantel clock. Crafted in finely cast and fire-gilded bronze, this extraordinary timepiece celebrates Diana—the Roman goddess of the hunt, the wilderness, and the moon—in a dramatic composition with three swans.
A Rare Icon of Mythology and Art
Empire clocks featuring Diana were prized in aristocratic homes, castles, and châteaux throughout France. This example is exceptionally rare, as Diana is depicted in a commanding pose with three swans, a motif seldom seen in period designs.
Diana is shown seated above the clock, robed in flowing classical drapery. One hand lifts a swan near her face, while the other pours water from a jug onto a pillar. A second swan, perched upon the pillar, channels the flowing water downward. Her extended legs rest partly on a pillar and partly on the head of a third swan, symbolizing her authority and grace. Each swan’s open beak evokes the fountains of ancient gardens, adding movement and vitality to the design.
Architectural Elegance
Two richly decorated pillars frame the enamel dial, which is fitted with Roman numerals and ormolu bronze hands. Beneath the dial, a delicate fringe of fire-gilt bronze enhances the overall sense of luxury.
The base is equally remarkable, adorned with mythological scenes in relief:
Left: Zeus with a goose.
Center: Two playful putti approached by another goose.
Right: Diana depicted once again, reinforcing the theme of divine strength and beauty.
The clock rests firmly on four bronze feet, combining stability with refined presence.
Movement & Function
8-day mechanical movement.
Professionally serviced and oiled.
Strikes the half-hour and hour on a bell.
Complete with original bell, pendulum, and winding key.
Fully functional and ready to use.
Original Ormolu Fire Gilding
This clock retains its original fire-gilt ormolu surface from the 1800s. The gilding has been carefully cleaned but never restored or regilded, preserving the authentic brilliance and patina of the period.
Dimensions (approx.)
Height: 48 cm / 19 in
Width: 42 cm / 16.5 in
Depth: 14 cm / 5.5 in
Condition
Excellent antique condition.
Original ormolu surface intact and well preserved.
Professional servicing ensures the clock is in full working order.
Shipping & Care
Your clock will be expertly packed with protective materials and shipped via a reliable courier service. Tracking and insurance are included to guarantee safe delivery worldwide.
✨ This French Empire ormolu mantel clock is more than a timepiece—it is a work of art that unites mythology, craftsmanship, and history. A centerpiece for collectors, connoisseurs, and those who seek the timeless grandeur of Empire design.
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